Hawthorne, NY (November 2, 2024) – The Arc Westchester is proud to announce that two of our staff members received special recognition at The Arc New York’s 75th Anniversary events on October 25th. Avery Valins, Assistant Executive Director of Day Services, was honored with the Marc N. Brandt Exceptional Leadership Award. This award recognizes an emerging leader among The Arc chapters who demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and a positive impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Patrick Olom, a dedicated Assistant Manager in our Residential Services, received the Thomas A. Maul Direct Support Professional Excellence Award. This award honors a Direct Support Professional who consistently demonstrates excellence, creativity, and commitment in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. At the luncheon in Saratoga Springs, a heartfelt video tribute was presented to both Avery and Patrick, celebrating their commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those we serve at The Arc Westchester. Following the luncheon, attendees enjoyed The Arc NY’s 75th Anniversary Bejeweled Gala, a vibrant celebration of our shared journey and progress over the years. The event featured a sit-down dinner, champagne toast, live music, dancing, a silent auction, and inspiring portraits of individuals we support from across the state. A special welcome by Broadway actor Mickey Rowe added to the evening’s festivities. Congratulations to Avery and Patrick for their well-deserved recognition!
About The Arc Westchester
The Arc Westchester, founded in 1949, is the largest agency in Westchester County supporting children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, and their families. The organization’s 700 employees provide nearly 2,000 individuals throughout the county with a broad range of innovative and effective programs and services designed to foster independence, productivity and participation in community life.
Their mission is to provide innovative supports for children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families, to build independence, achieve personal goals and strengthen community participation.
The Arc Westchester is a chapter of The Arc US and The Arc New York. For more information, visit www.arcwestchester.org
About The Arc New York
The Arc New York is the largest family-based provider of services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in New York State. Since 1949, The Arc New York has been a strong advocate for the
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